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The Best Burger Spots in Cape Town That Will Make You Forget Your Name!

Brace yourselves, foodies. This guide might just have you booking the next flight to Cape Town! The Mother City is no amateur when it comes to flipping patties and stacking buns.

Say goodbye to bland patties and predictable toppings and hello to seriously juicy, mouthwatering burgers.

Whether you’re into cosy hideaways or upscale joints that elevate your burger game, consider this list of the city’s top burger spots.

Gibson’s Gourmet Burgers & Ribs

Website: https://www.gibsonsburgers.co.za/  

Address: Shop 157, Shop 157 Lower Level, 19 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront

Phone: +27 87 357 3465

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Saturday – 12 PM to 10 PM
  • Sunday – 12 PM to 10:30 PM

Gibson’s Gourmet Burgers & Ribs offers a great view of the harbour and Table Mountain. 

The burgers here are excellent: hand-pressed, flame-grilled, and served on a fresh brioche bun. I tried the Philly Cheeseburger, which was juicy and flavorful, hitting all the right notes.

For those looking for something different, their Designer and Rolls Royce burgers have unique Tex-Mex and BBQ twists. The hand-cut fries were crispy and delicious, completing the meal.

Pro Tip:
Order the 200-g Pure Beef Classic Burger with hand-cut fries or baked potato on Monday Madness, and receive a complimentary draught beer.

Burger & Lobster

Website: https://burgerandlobster.co.za/  

Address: 105 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre

Phone: +27 21 422 4297 

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 12 PM to 10:30 PM

Burger & Lobster offers a sophisticated take on burgers, blending elegance with the comfort of a classic burger joint. When my friends and I decided to check it out, we were impressed by the stylish yet inviting atmosphere.

I chose the B&L burger, which was a delightful combination of well-balanced flavours. The thick beef patty was complemented by tangy pickles and fresh salad, adding a satisfying crunch.

One of my friends went for The Wolf Burger, which turned out to be a bold choice. The combination of beef patty with lobster, truffle mayo, and creamy brie was unexpected but surprisingly harmonious. 

Pro Tip:
Visit on Tuesdays for Double Trouble Chewsday! Get a beef smash burger and a fried chicken burger with fries for only R199.

The Dog’s Bollocks at YARD

Website: https://www.yardco.co.za/ 

Address: 6 Roodehek St, Gardens

Phone: +27 83 440 7843 

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9 AM to 10 PM

The Dog’s Bollocks is a hidden gem that’s become an institution for burger aficionados. The atmosphere is laid back with wooden benches and soft lighting. 

I remember biting into a 200-g patty so juicy and well-seasoned, sandwiched in sesame buns. Each bite was juicy and flavorful, and they offer plenty of toppings to customise your burger just the way you like it. 

And though it’s famed for its burgers, I’d be remiss not to mention the Pizza Warehouse on the premises. Their pizzas rival the burgers in taste and popularity.

Pro Tip:
Make the most of Yard’s free workspace. Enjoy a productive day with great coffee in a welcoming, creatively inspiring environment.

Aegir Project Brewery Noordhoek

Website: https://aegirprojectbrewery.com/ 

Address: 65 Beach Rd, Noordhoek

Phone: +27 66 587 9324

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9 AM to 10 PM

Nestled in Noordhoek, Aegir Project Brewery offers sweeping sea views and a laid-back retreat from the city hustle. Their burgers were served promptly, and the atmosphere, casual yet vibrant, added to the overall experience.

With grass-fed beef, aged cheddar, and tangy house pickles on a freshly baked Hokkaido-style bun, the cheeseburger immediately caught our attention. Each bite was a perfect blend of savoury flavours, complemented by their diverse selection of craft beers.

Pro Tip:
Take a chance with Dice Dinner every Thursday. Roll the dice for a shot at a free meal! Don’t skip this opportunity to dine luxuriously without spending a dime.

Clarke’s Bar & Dining Room

Website: https://www.clarkesdining.co.za/ 

Address: 133 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre

Phone: +27 87 470 0165 

Operating Hours:

  • Monday – 7 AM to 4 PM
  • Tuesday to Friday – 7 AM to 10 PM
  • Saturday – 8 AM to 10 PM
  • Sunday – 8 AM to 3 PM

Clarke’s is a bustling hub on vibrant Bree Street, known for its warm and inviting atmosphere. As we entered, we were greeted by the aroma of sizzling beef and the sight of diners enjoying their meals by the front windows overlooking the lively street.

The classic beef burger with Havarti cheese had a satisfyingly rich and savoury flavour. My friend ordered a meat-free dish and praised it for its flavorful and satisfying blend of spices.

The service was friendly and efficient, adding to the overall enjoyable experience. We lingered at the bar counter afterwards, watching the bartenders expertly craft cocktails and soaking in the lively atmosphere. 

Pro Tip:
It’s wise to reserve a table in advance, especially if your party is six or larger, as seating is limited and strictly adheres to table capacities. 

Zuney’s Wagyu Burger Bar

Website: https://www.zuneyburgers.com/  

Address: Shop 2, 69A Kloof St, Gardens

Phone: +27 82 493 0930

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Wednesday – 11 AM to 10 PM
  • Thursday to Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM
  • Sunday – 11 AM to 10 PM

Zuney’s Wagyu Burger Bar is another go-to spot for a hearty burger fix, with a cosy and inviting ambience. On our last visit, my friends and I started with their signature Wagyu Classic Burger.

The Wagyu patty was juicy and had a rich, buttery taste, complemented by the caramelised onions infused with Wagyu essence. Their house sauce struck a nice balance between tangy and savoury, giving every bite a burst of deliciousness.

What surprised us the most was their vegan burger, something unexpected from a place known for its Wagyu. The vegan patty had a satisfying, well-seasoned taste and great texture, complemented by fresh veggies and a creamy vegan sauce.

Pro Tip:
Elevate your burger experience by pairing your meal with their signature Wagyu fries. Renowned for their crispy exterior and fluffy interior, they’re the perfect complement to your gourmet burgers.

Izzyburger Wynberg

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheIzzyBurger/

Address: 121 Ottery Rd, Wynberg

Phone: +27 21 023 2780

Operating Hours:

  • Monday – 12:30 PM to 9 PM
  • Tuesday – 12 PM to 8 PM
  • Wednesday – 12:30 PM to 9:30 PM
  • Thursday – 1 PM to 9:30 PM
  • Friday – 2 PM to 10:30 PM
  • Saturday – 12:30 PM to 10:30 PM

One weekend in Wynberg, my family and I decided to try Izzyburger out for some hearty, flavorful burgers. I ordered their Izzy Long Footlong Burger, curious about its description of “three beef patties and melted cheddar.”

The first bite met my expectations. The patties were juicy and packed with flavour. Each bite was complemented perfectly by the melted cheese.

What impressed me most was the freshness. The buns were soft yet sturdy, holding everything together without being soggy.

Pro Tip:
Ensure you grab a bite of the action by catching the Izzyburger Express at Cape Town’s rugby match venues. It’s the quickest way to dive into the game-day spirit.

The NOB – No Ordinary Burger

Website: https://www.the-nob.com/ 

Address: 2 Niagara Rd, Tygerlake Building

Phone: +27 84 477 2434 

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Saturday – 12 PM to 9:30 PM
  • Sunday – 12 PM to 4 PM

The NOB is a spot my family and I recently discovered in Tygervalley. We were drawn in by its reputation for massive burgers, and let me tell you, they don’t disappoint in size or flavour.

I ordered their NOB burger, which was a hefty 280-g patty topped with peppery mushroom sauce and gooey camembert. The combination of flavours was deliciously indulgent, and the burger was so large I struggled to finish it.

If you’re up for a challenge, their Big Burger option is a 2-kg pulled beef behemoth. It promises to be both messy and memorable, making The NOB a must-visit for anyone craving a substantial burger experience in Cape Town.

Pro Tip:
Beat the midweek blues with their Wednesday Specials! Enjoy two Average Joe Burgers for just R195, sip on Mimosas for R35, or choose from their all-day cocktail selection at R48 and 500-ml Stangen Lager for R30.

Iron Steak and Bar Restaurant

Website: https://www.ironsteak.co.za/ 

Address: 114 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre

Phone: +27 21 422 1175

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 12 PM to 10:30 PM

Iron Steak and Bar is popular for its delicious flame-grilled steaks, and it also has a surprisingly great Wagyu beef burger, which many people may not know about.

The 100% Wagyu beef patty is served on a brioche bun with a side of fries cooked in Wagyu drippings, creating a juicy and flavorful meal. I recommend trying it on Wednesday nights when it’s available for just R99 with the fries.

What stood out to me was the rich juiciness of the Wagyu beef patty complemented by the crispy fries. 

Pro Tip:
Don’t miss their Half Price Social Hour where you can indulge in selected wines, beers, and cocktails at half the cost every day from 4 PM to 5:30 PM. Pair your drinks with their exquisite R79 bar bites for a perfect culinary experience.

Stud. The Burger Shop

Website: https://www.studtheburgershop.co.za/  

Address: 315 Main Rd, Sea Point

Phone: +27 87 470 0474 

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 11 AM to 10 PM

When I went to Stud. The Burger Shop with my family, we all tried their famous Stud Burger. The double-stacked Boran beef patty with double cheese, pickles, and onions, drizzled with mustard and mayo made for a juicy and flavorful experience. 

The kids with us loved the Jnr. Burger, which they devoured in minutes. I was also impressed by their vegan option; the meatless bun was delicious and satisfying. 

Pro Tip:
Pair your burger with Stud White wine, a crisp and cool companion that complements the rich flavours of the burger. The wine’s light and refreshing profile cuts through the savoury taste, balancing each bite with a clean finish. 

Jerry’s Burger Bar

Website: https://www.jerrysburgerbar.co.za/  

Address: Heritage Square, 98 Shortmarket St

Phone: +27 21 569 1355

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 11 AM to 10:30 PM

Jerry’s Burger Bar offers an extensive burger menu that locals and visitors alike enjoy.

I started with the Panko-crumbed cheese bombs filled with pulled pork and kimchi as a starter. For the main event, the juicy and flavorful Jerry burger with Swiss cheese, rocket, and red-onion relish on a brioche bun was a satisfying choice.

For those who can’t decide, the trio of sliders is a great option to try multiple flavours. With vegan and vegetarian options also available, Jerry’s caters to all burger lovers.

Pro Tip:
Make sure to try their Burger Monday deal where you can snag any burger with fries for just R99. 

Rick’s Café Americain

Website: https://rickscafe.co.za/ 

Address: 103 Kloof Street Crn, Weltevreden St, Gardens

Phone: +27 21 822 1100 

Operating Hours:

  • Tuesday to Sunday – 11 AM to 2 AM

Rick’s Café Americain is a spot I often find myself returning to. The café has a warm and inviting vibe, inspired by the movie Casablanca, and is housed in a Victorian building with a rooftop terrace with stunning views of Table Mountain.

I tried their classic Rick’s Cheeseburger. Made with organic beef, it came topped with cheddar, pickles, and a tangy red onion jam. The burger’s rich, smoky beef patty melded with the sharp cheddar and tangy sauce.

Rick’s also offers a great selection of South African wines and artisanal gins.

Pro Tip:
Don’t miss their Sunday roast special featuring Moroccan spiced roasted leg of lamb, a delectable addition to the à la carte menu, available for just R165. Be sure to pre-order to savour this popular dish!

Café Crave 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/cafecravekenilworth/ 

Address: 74 Loch Rd, Claremont

Phone: +27 73 565 1888

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Thursday – 8:30 AM to 7 PM
  • Friday to Saturday – 8:30 AM to 9 PM
  • Sunday – 8:30 AM to 6 PM

During one of my lunch breaks, I decided to try out Café Crave. The atmosphere was inviting with its trendy decor and friendly staff.

I tried their Crave Brioche Burger, which turned out to be a juicy 200-g beef patty on a freshly toasted brioche bun. The combination of eggs, cheese, peppers, and mushrooms added layers of flavour that complemented the grilled beef. 

Pro Tip:
Aside from burgers, you can also savour their Basic Breakfast Special for just R100. It comes with 2 eggs, 2 sausages, homemade toasted ciabatta, and your choice of drinks.

Royale Eatery

Website: https://www.royaleeatery.com/  

Address: 20 Vineyard Rd, Claremont

Phone: +27 21 206 6336

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Saturday – 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM

Entering Royale Eatery on bustling Long Street feels like stepping into a quirky time capsule—a mix of bohemian art and classic diner vibes. The menu, resembling old-fashioned cookbooks, boasts over thirty burger options. 

During my visit, I tried the Santori burger and the tender pork topped with savoury teriyaki sauce. The sauce had a hint of ginger and a balanced chilli kick, creating a delicious and satisfying flavour.

Despite the bustling atmosphere, the service was efficient, and our waitress ensured we had everything we needed. The prices, averaging between R50 and R70 per burger, might seem a bit steep at first glance, but the quality and taste make it worth every cent. 

Pro Tip:
Match your favourite burger with their signature extra-thick Oreo shake. The rich, creamy texture of the shake complements the savoury burger, creating a perfect balance of sweet and savoury in every bite.

Smokin Joe’s

Website: https://www.smokinjoesburgers.com/ 

Address: 50 Kloof St, Gardens

Phone: +27 21 110 5493

Operating Hours:

  • Monday – 11 AM to 7:30 PM
  • Tuesday – 11:30 AM to 8:30 PM
  • Thursday – 11 AM to 8:30 PM
  • Friday – 11:30 AM to 10:30 PM
  • Saturday – 12:30 PM to 10:30 PM
  • Sunday – 12:30 PM to 8:45 PM

Each time we visit Smokin’ Joe’s, it never fails to impress us with its cosy ambience and delightful flavours. My friend, who worked at a similar place in Durban, recommended their Smokin’ Joe burger—hot off the grill with caramelised onions and jalapeños.

The first bite was a burst of savoury goodness, the juices from the patties mingling with the tangy secret sauce and the slight crunch of the toasted bun. The flavours were well-balanced, not overpowering but distinct enough to leave a lasting impression. 

Pro Tip:
Aim to visit during off-peak hours, preferably mid-afternoon, to enjoy their signature burgers without the rush. This way, you not only savour the meal but also receive more personalised service from their friendly staff.

Free Bird Portside

Website: https://freebird.co.za/store/free-bird-portside/  

Address: Shop 7, Portside Tower, 4 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre

Phone: +27 21 569 9369 

Operating Hours:

  • Open daily – 9:30 AM to 9 PM

Free Bird Portside offers a delightful twist on the classic burger experience. I’ve had the pleasure of trying their chicken burgers, and I must say, they hit the mark.

The chicken breasts are juicy and flavorful, sourced from free-range birds. What sets them apart is the crispy coating—a perfect blend of buttermilk and flour that adds just the right crunch without being greasy.

They take their sides seriously too; everything is made fresh daily, from their hand-cut chips to the accompanying salads. 

Pro Tip:
For a midweek treat without breaking the bank, consider indulging in crispy chicken strips and chips on WOW Wednesdays. It’s a savvy way to enjoy a flavorful meal for just R60.

Junior Burger

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FastFoodMadeWell/ 

Address: 30 Regent Rd, Sea Point

Phone: +27 67 310 1827 

Operating Hours:

  • Sunday to Thursday – 11 AM to 11 PM
  • Friday & Saturday – 11 AM to 1 AM

Junior Burger caught my attention with its promise of quick, flavorful burgers, so I decided to try it one afternoon. The place had a classic diner vibe, with bright signage and a welcoming atmosphere.

I chose the Cheese Double Trouble burger, intrigued by its indulgent reputation, and it arrived promptly and neatly wrapped. The first bite was impressive with a juicy beef patty, melted cheese, and a lightly toasted bun adding a nice crunch.

What I appreciated most about Junior Burger was its simplicity; it focuses on making burgers and shakes exceptionally well without unnecessary frills.

Pro Tip:
Consider asking for your buns to be toasted. This quick step not only adds a satisfying crunch but also prevents the bun from becoming soggy with the patty’s juices.

Hudsons

Website: https://www.theburgerjoint.co.za/  

Address: Beach Rd, Muizenberg

Phone: +27 21 812 2787

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Friday – 10 AM to 11:30 PM
  • Saturday & Sunday – 9 AM to 11:30 PM

Hudsons, a popular burger spot in Cape Town since 2009, offers over 14 burger varieties. Classics include the Original Royale with bacon and cheese, while upscale options feature a Wagyu patty with caramelised onion and homemade pickles.

My friend and I tried The Shroom and The Hudson burgers. The Shroom was rich with cheddar, garlic sautéed mushrooms, and truffle cheese sauce, while The Hudson was delicious with mustard mayo and homemade pickles.

As someone who prefers sparkling wine over beer, I was pleased to find Boschendal Brut on the menu, which paired well with the burgers.

Pro Tip:
Unleash your inner superstar at Hudson’s with Karaoke Thursdays! For only R7, you can grab a mic, enjoy Espolon Tequila, and make every note count.

Jack Black’s Taproom

Website: https://jackblackbeer.com/ 

Address: 10 Brigid Rd, Diep River

Phone: +27 21 447 4151 

Operating Hours:

  • Monday – 10 AM to 5 PM
  • Tuesday – 10 AM to 6 PM
  • Wednesday to Friday – 10 AM to 10 PM
  • Saturday – 11 AM to 5 PM

Jack Black’s Taproom is known for its vibrant atmosphere and great craft beer selection. Their beer options are impressive, featuring both regular brews and seasonal taps that pair perfectly with their burgers.

I tried the classic beef burger, which had a smoky, char-grilled flavour. It came with tangy homemade pickles and creamy aioli. On the other hand, my friend opted for the spicy pulled pork burger braised in their Butcher Block Ale, which had the perfect amount of heat.

We were also impressed by the vegan burger made with marinated aubergine and miso-roasted carrots. It was delicious and satisfying. 

Pro Tip:
For a midweek treat, consider the Wednesday Burger Special where you can enjoy two burgers for R120, available from noon until 9 PM.

Redemption Burgers

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RedemptionBurgers 

Address: Block B, Old Biscuit Mill, 375 Albert Rd, Salt River

Phone: +27 

Operating Hours:

  • Monday to Wednesday – 9 AM to 6 PM
  • Thursday & Friday – 9 AM to 8 PM
  • Saturday – 9 AM to 6 PM
  • Sunday – 9 AM to 5 PM

Redemption Burgers is a cosy spot that punches above its weight in the Cape Town burger scene. My family and I recently decided to give it a try, drawn in by its reputation for unique burgers and local craft beers. 

I tried the El Borracho instead of the usual beef burger. It had homemade jalapeño mayo, chilli salsa, and guacamole, creating a perfect blend of spicy and creamy flavours.

My mom had The Karoo Grazer, a lamb burger with fried eggplant and tangy tomato relish, which she found uniquely flavorful. Dad tried The Flimsy Gypsy, featuring ostrich mince, and he was pleasantly surprised by its delicious blend of textures and tastes.

Pro Tip:
Make your Tuesdays more delightful by indulging in the Burger Twosdays special. Enjoy a duo of Straight Ace Beef or Low Flyer Chicken Burgers with a side of signature fries, all for just R180. 
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